TSMC could remotely stop chip production if China invades Taiwan

If China invades Taiwan, companies such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and ASML Holding Ways to remotely disable chip manufacturing machinesas described by Bloomberg Tuesday (21). Both countries are experiencing moments of tension.

The industry is worried about a possible invasion The island nation is responsible for producing most of the advanced chips used in the world. The United States government has also expressed concern about the possibility of China acquiring this technology.

However, sources interviewed by the publication, who prefer to remain anonymous, guarantee that the latest generation equipment used in semiconductor production will be protected. Among these Extreme ultraviolet machines (EUVs) purchased by TSMC.

The report even points out that ASML Holding is running simulations regarding the possibility of China’s invasion of Taiwan in order to better evaluate the risks related to machines. Netherlands-based brand produces EUVsBanned from sale to Chinese companies at the request of the USA.

Advanced technology

Released in 2016 by the Dutch manufacturer EUVs use low-frequency light waves to print the smallest chip transistors currently available. These machines are responsible for producing chips for artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, one of today’s biggest trends.

They also produce: processors that power sensitive military applicationsThis has led to greater concerns among American officials about the possibility of the technology being used by a rival country. The same process is also used in the production of Apple chips produced by TSMC.

Another striking detail is that the lithography equipment, which has extreme ultraviolet light, is similar in size to a public bus. Already Each of these machines costs approximately $217 million.equivalent to R$1.1 billion at current prices.

Since launch, more than 200 EUVs have been sold by ASML to processor manufacturers outside China, with TSMC purchasing the bulk of the package. devices a with frequent maintenance and the participation of the expert teamWear special clothing to prevent contamination.

Factories not working

It seems that the Taiwanese manufacturer has been working on measures to prevent unauthorized use of its equipment for some time. Last September, TSMC President Mark Liu suggested: Attackers will disable chip production machines.

“If there is a military invasion We will make the TSMC factory unusable”, commented in an interview with the manager CNNabout plans to protect chip manufacturing technology used by major companies around the world.

Wanted, ASML Holding and TSMC did not comment on remote shutdown of machines highlighted by the publication. US officials also declined to comment on the issue.